The birth of a school

By Moqheeta Mehboob

We meet people, speak to them, listen to them, and our thinking expands. We relate their words to something close to our hearts. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting some capable dentists at the Tamani Foundation, and one guest, visiting from Kerala, India, shared an interesting concept that struck a chord with me.

They were discussing their book publishing work and the internship programs they offer, covering every aspect of book creation. They aptly call it "Training on How a Book is Born." I was impressed by how well-structured the process was, divided into various stages—from the idea of writing the book, guided by creative writers, to the physical compilation, digital versions, font selection, book cover design, binding, and securing an ISBN number.

It made me think: if the making of a book is so thoughtfully planned, why is the process of starting a school—a place that shapes the future generation—often rushed or overlooked? Shouldn’t the founders of schools carefully think through the “birth” of a school?

Today, I want to explore two key questions:

1. Why is a school born?

2. How is a school born?

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Why is a School Born?

The purpose of a school defines everything about it. Most of the time, schools are established because someone had a noble concern for the community. Unfortunately, in recent times, some schools have become profit-driven ventures, luring parents with flashy facilities and fancy ideas.

This write-up, however, addresses the segment of conscious and sincere school founders. For them, the "why" is very clear—they want to uplift the community and contribute to its progress by nurturing the next generation. These schools are often created even in the remotest places, with minimal resources, and sometimes, without profit motives.

But it isn’t enough to have a noble “why.” The vision behind the school must also be bold and long-term.

• Do you envision your school lasting for 10 years, for your lifetime, or for generations to come?

• Do you want your students to simply graduate and get jobs, or to become nation-builders and global contributors?

• Do you want only the wealthiest students to excel, or do you envision a school where every child is given the opportunity to touch the sky?

How is a School Born?

A school begins as an idea that takes physical shape in the form of a building. But without a detailed blueprint for how the school will function, things can quickly spiral into chaos.

1. Policies: The Foundation

Policies are like the boundaries of a football field. They define the playing area and ensure the game runs smoothly. Policies are crucial because they set clear guidelines for every aspect of the school, from academics and discipline to staffing and administration.

Depending on the type of school—whether it’s residential, rural, or urban—the policies will vary. Without them, schools risk becoming dependent on individuals, assuming the founding team will always be around, which is rarely the case. Policies enable seamless transitions from one leader to the next, turning the school into a lasting legacy.

2. Procedures: The Action Plan

Once the policies are in place, the next step is implementing them through clear procedures. Well-defined processes reduce confusion, save time, and ensure consistency in daily operations. When every aspect of the school is documented, execution becomes smoother, and staff can focus on delivering quality education.

3. Progress Plan: The Growth Blueprint

A school should always aim to grow and evolve. What worked 10 years ago might not work today. A progress plan ensures the school stays relevant, adapting to the needs of its students and the changing world.

• Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is vital—not just for teachers, but for every leader in the school. Training and growth should be a priority for all.

• The progress plan should allow for regular updates to policies, incorporating new ideas and removing outdated practices to keep the school dynamic and forward-thinking.

4. Performance Evaluation

Every stage of the school’s functioning must be evaluated regularly. This includes assessing staff performance, student outcomes, and overall school progress. Evaluation helps identify gaps and ensures the school stays aligned with its vision.

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The Big Picture

A school is far more than just a building or a curriculum. It’s a complex system designed to educate, inspire, and prepare future generations. If care isn’t taken, a poorly planned school can do more harm than good.

By following a structured process—starting with a clear vision, setting robust policies, implementing procedures, planning for growth, and regularly evaluating performance—schools can create a legacy that shapes lives for generations.

One of my favorite quotes by Henry Ford comes to mind: “If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got.”

If we desire better results, perhaps it’s time for schools to take a step back, prioritize the foundational steps, and then move forward into action.

I wish all sincere founders success in their endeavors to create schools that leave a lasting impact on the world.